Leicester have confirmed Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager – but Match of the Day host Gary Lineker has hinted that the Dutchman wasn’t first on their list
Gary Lineker has claimed that Ruud van Nistelrooy WASN’T Leicester City’s first choice to succeed Steve Cooper at the helm.
The Foxes confirmed on Friday night that the former Manchester United interim boss had been appointed as their new manager. And the announcement means Van Nistelrooy will make a swift return to the Premier League after leaving United earlier this month.
Leicester were linked with a number of names – including Van Nistelrooy – after parting company with Cooper last weekend. But Lineker, a huge Foxes fan, has now hinted that others were ahead of him on the club’s wishlist.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker said: “Whoever you go for it’s a gamble. I understand, I’m informed behind the scenes that one or two managers turned it down.
“But it’s an opportunity for Ruud. It’s a big name to come to Leicester City and I hope it works out.”
Leicester were linked with Graham Potter – who was believed to be in the running for the job prior to Cooper’s appointment – and David Moyes, who is unattached after leaving West Ham next summer.
First-team coach Ben Dawson will take charge for Leicester’s meeting against Brentford with Van Nistelrooy officially taking charge on Sunday. The Foxes will be aiming to bounce back from last weekend’s 2-1 loss against Chelsea, which appeared to seal Cooper’s fate.
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Van Nistelrooy will be in attendance for Saturday’s fixture after flying in. Intriguingly, Van Nistelrooy over saw two wins against Leicester during his brief reign in charge of United.
Club chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha expressed his excitement over the appointment, adding: “It is my pleasure to welcome Ruud to Leicester City. He joins a Club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a talented squad, and we are all excited to see the impact he can have as we embark on this new chapter together.
“Ruud’s experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our Club.”
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